Saltwater fly fishing is a challenging sport practiced from shallow inshore flats to deep ocean water. Species ranging from small speckled sea trout to huge tarpon are caught on fly fishing gear. More substantial than that used for freshwater fly fishing, saltwater gear often uses heavier rods, larger and more durable reels and bigger flies to deal with bigger and more active saltwater fish.
Species
Anglers target a range of game fish when fly fishing in saltwater. Inshore and flats species include spotted sea trout, ladyfish, mangrove, cubera and mutton snapper, snook, jack crevalle, bonefish, permit, pompano, redfish and tarpon. Offshore saltwater fly fishing can land dolphin, bluefish, amberjack, cobia, mackerel, marlin, tuna, bass and shark species.
Rods and Reels
Most saltwater flyfishing rods are made of fiberglass or graphite. Lengths range from eight to 10 feet, on average. They also vary in weight, from the lightest seven-weight to 15-weight rods and come in actions described as fast, medium or slow, referring to the flexibility of the rod. Special, corrosion-resistant saltwater fly fishing reels are also used. Because saltwater fly fishing predominantly targets large fish, the reels are typically larger to allow for more line capacity.
Fly Line
For a saltwater fly line setup, the backing line is first placed on the reel. Because large saltwater fish run, backing lines of up to 300 yards are required. The backing line ties to the fly line. Fly lines may be the same diameter from end to end or may taper at either or both ends. They also come in different weights and may float or sink. For saltwater fly fishing, a sinking line is usually preferred. Match both the line weight and taper to the rod. The fly line is then attached to a more slender leader, which presents the fly to the fish.
Flies
Saltwater flies are usually larger than freshwater flies. Many saltwater flies imitate bait fish, including shad, smelt and glass minnows. Others are simply brightly colored to draw attention. Designs include streamers made of long feathers, bucktails constructed with long hairs or fibers and other flies using fur, wool or other materials that impart a lot of action to the lure. Poppers are also popular, producing gurgling or chugging sounds that attract fish.
Locations
Snook, redfish and other inshore species are frequently found in backwaters, estuaries and brackish water near rivers. Bonefish, tarpon, ladyfish and other species that inhabit flats in bays and inlets are also caught fly fishing. Many inshore species also hold along the edges of mangrove stands, under boat docks and around bridge pilings. Off shore, snapper, bass, cobia and even some tuna are taken near wrecks, reefs and shallow structure. Open water yields faster-moving pelagic game fish that cruise constantly, such as bluefin tuna, dolphin or billfish.
Technique
To cast a saltwater fly fishing line, the angler uses a highly controlled whipping action of the rod to advance the line and place the fly as close to the game fish as possible. Fly fishing in saltwater usually requires longer casts, often into the wind, so a stronger and more aggressive approach may be necessary. The angler must be able to quickly and accurately place a fly near enough to constantly moving fish so they can recognize and take the lure.
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